Nick Saban Updates Status Of 5-Star Freshman Antonio Alfano

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 08: Head coach Nick Saban of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts to a play during the second half against the Georgia Bulldogs in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Alabama has cruised through its first two games of the season, however, that doesn’t mean it’s been smooth sailing for Nick Saban behind the scenes. The legendary coach is going through somewhat of a rift with five-star freshman Antonio Alfano.

The Crimson Tide were thrilled to add a freshmen of Alfano’s caliber to their roster. He was the No. 5 overall recruit coming out of high school, per 247Sports.

Even though Alfano is an extremely talented player, it doesn’t mean he’s above team rules.

Saban revealed that Alfano hasn’t participated in the last three practices because he’s “going through some discipline things.” Apparently part of the issue has to do with academics.

When asked if he has an update on Alfano, Saban said tonight: “Not really. He’s kind of disappeared a little bit.”

This isn’t very encouraging when you consider the recent timeline involving Alfano. Not only has he missed a couple of practices, he didn’t get to play in the Alabama’s home opener against New Mexico State.

Saban on if he has an update on Antonio Alfano: "Not really. He's kind of disappeared a little bit."

Alfano hasn’t entered the NCAA transfer portal as of today. There’s no telling if it could actually get to that point.

Not having Alfano on the field might not affect Alabama this year since freshmen usually don’t see many snaps on defense. The real issue would be losing out on a talented prospect for the next few years.

Despite all the talent that Alfano possesses, Saban is making it clear that he needs his players to be accountable for their actions.